NUTRITION EDUCATION
Our Nutrition Education program addresses the root causes of hunger by equipping community members with the knowledge and skills for healthy living and greater self-sufficiency. Through classes and hands-on learning, participants gain practical tools to improve their well-being and reduce food insecurity.
COOKING MATTERS
Cooking Matters is a national, research-based cooking and nutrition curriculum that empowers participants with practical skills for healthier living. Throughout the course, participants learn about healthy eating, grocery shopping on a budget, meal planning, food safety, and basic cooking techniques. By the end of the program, they gain confidence in their ability to prepare affordable, home-cooked meals, which is a step that supports both food security and long-term self-sufficiency.
Each class includes a bag of groceries for participants to take home, giving them the opportunity to practice the skills they’ve learned. Cooking Matters is offered at Clark County Food Bank and in partnership with community organizations at locations across Clark County.
GROCERY STORE TOURS
Our one-time grocery store tours teach the basics of eating healthy on a budget. Led by a Clark County Food Bank Nutrition Educator, participants walk the aisles of WinCo while learning tips and strategies for choosing nutritious, affordable foods.
At the end of the tour, each participant receives a $15 gift card to practice their new skills and put what they’ve learned into action.
SEED TO SUPPER
Seed to Supper is a beginning gardening course that equips adults with the tools and knowledge to grow their own food on a limited budget. From planting seeds to harvesting vegetables, participants learn the essentials of starting and maintaining a productive garden, making fresh food more accessible and affordable.
Seed to Supper is offered at Clark County Food Bank and at other agencies throughout Clark County.
STUDENT NUTRITION AND COOKING (SNAC)
SNAC is a cooking and nutrition program designed for middle school students. Through hands-on activities and recipe preparation, teens learn the basics of healthy eating that is both affordable and enjoyable. The program builds confidence in the kitchen while equipping students with lifelong skills for independence, wellness, and good health.
SNAC classes are offered at several middle schools within Vancouver and Evergreen school districts, as well as at teen centers across Clark County.
COOKING & GARDENING WORKSHOPS
Our Nutrition Education workshops offer a variety of cooking, nutrition, and gardening classes with a focus on healthy eating on a budget. Each workshop dives into specific topics, providing participants with more advanced nutrition knowledge and practical kitchen or gardening skills to support healthier living.
HEALTHY PANTRY PROJECT
The Healthy Pantry Project is designed to encourage food pantry clients to make healthy choices while shopping and cooking at home. Activities include cooking demonstrations with samples to introduce new or unfamiliar foods, creating and sharing easy-to-use recipes, and training pantry volunteers to better support clients in making healthy choices.
Get Involved
Do you love cooking, gardening, or sharing what you know about healthy living? Consider becoming a Nutrition Education volunteer. You’ll have the chance to support workshops, help in the garden, assist with cooking classes, and walk alongside neighbors during grocery store tours. Together, we can share skills that build confidence and strengthen our community..